Phil Woods & The Festival Orchestra - Celebration! (1997)

Altoist Phil Woods has recorded a countless number of records through the years, but few with a big band, and none previous to this release with an orchestra that he actually put together. Woods' quintet, which includes trumpeter Brian Lynch and pianist Bill Charlap, is expanded to 16 pieces for this release with such familiar associates as altoist Nelson Hill and trombonist Hal Crook (who is showcased on "Willow Weep for Me"). The altoist wrote most of the arrangements and contributed six of the nine compositions, including "Reet's Neet," "Goodbye Mr. Evans," and "All Bird's Children." The music is boppish but not overly predictable, and the charts are consistently colorful, making this an easily recommended set for straight-ahead jazz fans.~Celebration Review by Scott Yanow